A doula (pronounced 'doo-la') is a professional who provides emotional, physical, informational and practical support for the expectant, laboring or post-partum mother. Although she does not perform any medical tasks, her responsibilities complement those of the medical birthing team.

A doula, in a sense, mothers the mother. She provides constant emotional support throughout the labor, reassuring the mother that the pain of childbirth is normal and natural and that the end result is worth all the hard work. Calming words and tender reassurance are her best tools. A doula sometimes becomes the labor 'manager,' using a plethora of medical information to assist mom and dad with their birthing choices. The doula fosters a sense of teamwork, guiding dad through each play-by-play. All of this enhances the health and wellbeing of both mother and baby, and studies indicate that with the assistance of a doula, mothers experience shorter labors and request pain medication less often. Studies also show that with a doula, there is a reduction in caesarean rates and forceps delivery.

Recognizing birth as a positive life experience, the doula helps the expectant mother embrace this beautiful celebration. The birth experience is something a mother will never forget.

Rae Schmidt, founder of Doula By Design, is the mother of two children and has five years experience as a doula. She is also certified in Imagery and educated in the Bradley Method. She can be reached for a free interview by calling (440) 353-3404 or by e-mailing raeschmidt66@hotmail.com. For more information on Doulas go to www.acnm.org/focus/thinking/difference.cfm.